The International Organisation for Migration, Mercy Corps and Centre for Democracy and Development, have initiated a conflict mitigation and reconciliation programme to enhance peace building in Katsina State.

The project tagged: “Conflict Mitigation and Community Reconciliation in North-West Nigeria, ” is being implemented by the organisations with support of the European Union.

The Project Manager, Philip Ikiti, stated this on Friday in Katsina at an event to mark the 2024 International Women’s Day.

Mr Ikiti said the North-West region recorded pockets of conflict which affected an estimated one million people since 2014.

He said, “Currently viewed as acts of armed banditry, communal clashes and insurgency since 2014, the number of kidnapping has increased from 29 to 39 per cent in 2022. In response to the challenges, the three organisations have partnered to implement the comprehensive pilot programme to support Nigeria’s government’s efforts in Katsina State.

“The project is an 18-month initiative aimed at reducing community violence, promoting locally driven peace initiatives, and mitigating conflicts over natural resources.’’

Mr Ikiti said that the programme was being implemented in Batsari, Danmusa, Jibia and Kankara Local Government Areas of the state, adding that the areas had experienced banditry, farmer/herder clashes, and communal crises.

The crises, he said, had been exacerbated by impact of climate change on land and water resources.

He stated, “The expected result for the project is to ensure inclusive peace building processes are strengthened to support the implementation of political and community response to violence. And also to ensure that inclusive governance systems are strengthened to enhance social cohesion and address the needs and grievances of communities.’’

In her remarks, Wife of the Katsina State governor, Hajiya Zulaihat Radda, said the theme of this year’s IWD celebration underscores the importance of collective action, solidarity and inclusivity in advancing gender equality and women empowerment. 

Mrs Radda said, “It therefore, reminds us that by working together to overcome obstacles and bridge divides, we can create a brighter and more equitable future for all.

“From the foregoing, it is pertinent to state that the day serves as a global reminder of the ongoing struggle for gender equity and the empowerment of women worldwide. It’s a day to celebrate the achievements of women in politics, education, medicine, business, science, culture and beyond.’’

She said the day aimed to raise awareness about the issues affecting including gender-based discrimination, violence, unequal access to education/healthcare, and barriers to economic participation. 

Mrs Radda stressed that by shining a spotlight on these issues, women could foster meaningful dialogue and advocacy efforts towards addressing the problems.

Also, the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Hajiya Zainab Musa-Musawa, lauded the partners, and pledged more collaborations for sustainable development of the state.

The theme of the 2024 IWD is: “Breaking barriers: Building bridges.’’

The event was organised in collaboration between the organisations, office of the governor’s wife and the state Ministry of Women Affairs.

(NAN)